Highland and Munster Police Warn of Natural Gas Odors

June 19, 2017-NIPSCO crews will be working to transfer natural gas from an existing underground
line to a newly constructed natural gas line on Tuesday in Highland and Munster. Residents and businesses may experience natural gas odors in the air as a result of the routine procedure. The project is part of NIPSCO’s broader efforts to invest in modernizing and upgrading its natural gas and electric infrastructure.

This modernization project will replace an existing underground natural gas line that extends from the Indiana and Illinois state line to Highland and it will provide added safety and reliability for the future.

For your safety, NIPSCO encourages any individual who may detect a natural gas odors, regardless of whether or not they suspect it’s related to this project, to call 1-800-4-NIPSCO (800-464-7726). A service technician will be sent to check the safety of the area.

Detecting a Gas Leak

Since natural gas is colorless and odorless, NIPSCO adds a harmless, non-toxic chemical that makes it easier to detect a gas leak before it can create a hazardous situation. The chemical, called mercaptan, smells a lot like rotten eggs.

When You Smell Gas Outside

If you suspect a leak outside, turn off and abandon any motorized equipment you might be using:

Leave the area quickly

Warn others to stay away from the area

Remain outside until NIPSCO can send someone to check on the source of the odor

An odor of gas outside your home should be reported just as you would report an inside odor. Gas leaks from service lines could migrate into your home through walls or drain lines.